Psycho

My partner had a permanent visa and was living in England when I met her. We were in a relationship for around 18 months (14 of it living together) when we decided to come to Australia together we then had to prove that we had lived together at least 12 months. I appreciate what others have said but there did not seem to be any alternative to this. We were told repeatedly that we had to provide hard proof that we were in a relationship. This included things like having booked holidays together (Joint names, not necessarily joint account), bank statements, credit card statements, utility bills, mobile bills etc. at the address where we both lived. All these however NOT necessarily in joint names - they simply wanted proof that we were at the same address. I would advise that you talk to immigration and tell them your circumstances. The basic aim is to get as much hard evidence (facts) together to show you are a couple and prove the length of time you have been. Bear in mind that once you apply there may be a wait of around 5-6 months while your application is processed. This would mean that if you were on a tourist visa you legally wouldn't be able to work for around 8-9 months after your work visa expired. Could you try for sponsorship with your current employer in the meantime?

Not sure about puppies but our adult dog is in Oz and has just had a C5 injection, a kennel cough injection and a heartworm injection. It might be that the C5 is 5 in one and that this is spilt into two for puppies. The vet should be able to advise.

Not sure that I fully understand where you are coming from Phillip. You have a skills visa. It sounds like you are a clever guy and didn't come out to Oz on a whim. You have also plenty of experience of migration so would have a better idea than most of what to expect. While you might need some local tickets for your work, agencies & local firms can advise. In the meantime as others have suggested, maybe move to Melbourne. It will get dark there much later in the summer (though won't be as warm). 20 days is really not enough time to settle into a new country. I have been in Sydney for 18 months now and still struggle personally at times but the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages. Get yourself settled into a place you like, get a job - any job while getting your tickets in place. Bar work is a really good way to meet loads of people - and settle into the community life. You like football so either go down the local bars & watch the games (Foxtel, ESPN and Setanta show most games live or repeated) and mix with people who share your interests. If you really don't want to be in Australia then go back but if you do then get through the next couple of months (they are the hardest) and I am sure you will grow to enjoy this country.